Freshwater Fish Species Profile and Care InformationScientific Name : Balantiocheilos melanopterus
Common Names : Bala Shark, Silver Shark, Tri Color Shark Minnow, Hangus, Silver BalaCare Level : Easy to Medium, needs lots of swimming space and a larger tank.
Size : Up to 13 inches (33 cm)
pH : 6 - 8
Temperature : 72°F - 82°F (22°C - 28°C)
Water Hardness : 5° to 12° dH,
Lifespan : 8 - 10 years
Origin / Habitat : South East Asia
Temperament / Behavior : Peaceful and can be kept with smaller
fish. However, don't keep with tropical fish small enough to fit in the
Bala's mouth such as
neon tetras.
Breeding / Mating / Reproduction : Breeding is not recommended
in the home aquarium due to their large adult size. See the video above
which might be breeding behavior or a maybe a courtship dance of some
kind.
Tank Size : 55 gallon minimum because of the large potential adult size of the Bala Shark. They will do much better in larger aquariums.
Compatible Tank Mates : Many, given the peaceful nature of this fish.
Fish Disease : Freshwater Fish Disease - Diagnose, Symptoms and Treatment
Diet / Fish Food : Good eaters, they will go after flakes, pellets, freeze dried and live foods. Give them a varied diet.
Tank Region : All
Gender : Hard to determine, but the female may be smaller than a male Silver Shark of the same age.
Subject: Fish Facts - Bala Shark 
Sun Nov 30, 2008 4:42 pm
